What class of anthropogenic compounds is responsible for the breakdown of stratospheric ozone?

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are the primary anthropogenic compounds responsible for the breakdown of stratospheric ozone. These compounds, once widely used in refrigeration, aerosol propellants, and foam production, release chlorine atoms when they are broken down by ultraviolet light in the stratosphere.

When CFCs reach the stratosphere, they undergo photolysis, a process where the energy from UV radiation breaks them apart. This reaction releases chlorine atoms, which can then catalyze the destruction of ozone (O3) molecules, leading to the depletion of the ozone layer. A single chlorine atom can destroy thousands of ozone molecules before it is removed from the atmosphere, making CFCs particularly effective at ozone depletion.

Other options, while they may have environmental impacts, do not play a significant role in stratospheric ozone depletion. Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), for instance, were introduced as substitutes for CFCs and do not contain chlorine, thus they do not contribute to ozone layer degradation. Perfluorocarbons and aldehydes also have different chemical structures and functions that do not include the same ozone-depleting properties as CFCs. Therefore, CFC